Day 1
You will be picked up in the east coast town of Lahad Datu and transferred to Tabin Wildlife Reserve (1:30 hrs).  Check into Tabin Wildlife Resort and be briefed on your activities over the next few days.  The attractive timber lodges of the resort come complete with private balcony, ceiling fan and hot water; you will enjoy the luxury of a hot shower before you commence your adventure. Enjoy the beauty of nature as you explore the vicinity of the resort. Nestled within the rainforest beside the Lipad river, this lovely setting is home to a surprising variety of birds, insects and small mammals, even right beside the buildings of the resort. In the afternoon, visit the Lipad mud volcano which provides a mineral salt lick for wildlife.  After trekking through the rainforest for 20 minutes, arrive at the elevated bare area of the mud volcano which is frequented by wildlife and birds.  Try to identify the multitude of animal footprints here. Climb the observation tower and admire the contrasting landscape of the bare mud volcano and its surrounding thick forest, where birds are commonly sighted. After dinner, enjoy a slide presentation on Tabin’s natural wonders, followed by a trip to look out for nocturnal wildlife and birds.  Remember to look up at the clear, dark sky of Tabin, identify the constellations above you, and make a wish or two. Overnight at Tabin Wildlife Resort.   (L,D)

Day 02
You may opt to join the early morning bird walk to discover some of Tabin’s rich collection of almost 300 bird species. After breakfast, trek through the lush green rainforest known for its rich diversity of plants and animal species to visit Lipad Waterfall.  Take a dip in the natural pool and enjoy a natural and refreshing shower under the waterfall. Alternatively explore the surrounding vegetation or just relax.  Retire early tonight to prepare for the next few days’ work on rhino conservation. (B,L,D)

Day 03
Today you will begin your journey into the deep virgin forest to gather data and look for tracks of the Sumatran Rhino. While undertaking survey and observation work, you’re likely to discover a variety of birds, otters, monitor lizards, small mammals and even elephants.  Tabin’s rainforest environment can be so alluring that one can almost forget the main purpose is to search for rhino foot prints. You will help prepare a temporary camp for your overnight stay, as well as preparing basic meals. (B,L,D).

Day 04
This is another day of trekking through the forest to collect data related to the rhino and its habitat. Part of the journey may be challenging and undulating. However, along the way, there are plenty of opportunities for you to catch a glimpse of  birds such the Kingfisher, Rufous Piculet, Rhinoceros Hornbill, White-Breasted-Wood-Swallow and Great Argus Pheasant. Mammals you may see include the Red Leaf Monkey, Silver Langgur and many more. The team will spend several hours attempting to locate and identify rhino foot prints.  Overnight at a temporary camp which you will help to prepare. (B,L,D)

Day 05
Today you will return to the delightful comfort of Tabin Wildlife Resort where you will spend for a night. (B.L,D)

Day 06
After breakfast, you may want to relax in the vicinity of the Tabin Wildlife Resort, sit by the Lipad river, have a drink of local coffee or enjoy the presence of  birds, insects and sometimes small mammals that can be seen close by. After lunch, depart Tabin. (B,L)

Notes: Activities are subject to weather conditions, and may be re-organised to best meet operational situations, Participants  must be fit and healthy. Rhino survey and conservation work can be tedious and involves hours every day of walking in the rain, at times crossing swollen rivers, trekking up and down steep ridges and ravines ­in an environment with humidity of over 90%, and temperatures hovering at 30 degrees C during the day, Meals during the rhino survey program are generally communal and gathered from the forest, with local dishes accompanied by rice, Accommodation during the rhino survey program may be in the form of  temporary camps, tents or stilt houses.
 
What to bring: Back pack, light sleeping bag, and plastic bags to keep your personal effects dry, Water filter and/or tablets (available at pharmacies) to clean drinking water, Leech socks can be purchased upon arrival, Teva-type sandals or Japanese slippers, to be worn while in base camp, can be purchased upon arrival, Waterproof bag and silica gel for your camera, FAST DRYING: Sturdy light-weight long trousers, long and short-sleeve t-shirts preferably dark colors, socks, short trousers, night clothes, towels, hat or cap, Antiseptic cream, talcum powder, antibiotics to treat septic wounds, insect repellent, Soap with low or no environmental impact

Package includes: Scheduled return transfer Lahad Datu/Tabin/Lahad Datu, meals as stated, Rhino conservation programme as per itinerary, guided tours and activities at Tabin Wildlife Resort, accommodation.

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